FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — Mayor Paul Coogan, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn, and representatives from organizations like SSTAR and the Greater Fall River Domestic Violence Coalition gathered Friday to raise awareness about domestic violence “In Fall River, there were about 700 cases last year,” Coogan said. “It’s a very serious problem. We want people to know there are plenty of avenues to get the help they need.” Organizers said they hoped the event would encourage the community to take part in prevention and offer support to victims. One of the key moments of the event was the Clothesline Project display, which featured personal messages from survivors of domestic violence. The event also included a flag-raising ceremony and a proclamation from Mayor Coogan, recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Organizers said it is also important to note that one in seven domestic violence victims are male. The event was open to the public, and leaders hope it will encourage the community to take part in prevention and offer support to those affected. “It’s the perpetrators that need to be addressed,” Fall River Police Deputy Chief Barden Castro said. “They need services as well as the victims to control their behavior and learn how to have healthy relationships.” Categories: Fall River, Massachusetts, News